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搭配 “on the table” 的字面意思是 “在桌子上”,但它也可以被用来表示 “计划、建议等已经被提出,摆在了桌面上,有待讨论”。听节目,学习 “on the table” 的这个用法。
(关于台词的备注: 请注意这不是广播节目的逐字稿件。本文稿可能没有体现录制、编辑过程中对节目做出的改变。)
Jiaying
欢迎收听 BBC英语教学的 “地道英语” 节目,我是佳莹。
Rob
… and I'm Rob. We have a phrase that's often used in business – we say it when someone suggests a plan or makes an offer for other people to consider. We say this suggestion or plan is 'on the table'.
Jiaying
On the table. 这个短语的字面意思是 “摆在桌面上”。
Rob
Yes, that's the literal meaning, but the phrase is usually used metaphorically.
Jiaying
原来,短语 “on the table” 的意思是 “计划或建议已被提交,以供人们考虑或讨论”。
Rob
When something is on the table, it is considered and discussed before a decision is made – it can be negotiated. For example, if you're looking for a new job, an employer might put a job offer on the table for you to consider.
Jiaying
在找工作时候,如果你被录用,那么录用公司可能会 “put a job offer on the table for you to consider”。Let's hear some more examples.
Examples
The bank has put an offer to buy its rival on the table. Will they accept?
We've put a new pay offer on the table. Let's hope the employees will accept it.
There are several issues on the table that we need to discuss before we can make a decision.
Jiaying
你正在收听的是 BBC英语教学的 “地道英语” 节目。上面我们介绍了短语 “on the table” 的意思和用法,它指 “想法、建议或计划已经被提交,以供人讨论或考虑”。
Rob
The phrase is used to discuss serious situations – you wouldn't put a suggestion to go to the cinema 'on the table'.
Jiaying
And when something is 'on the table', it can be negotiated before a decision is made.
Rob
Yes, that's true. So, if a great job, with a good pension, good pay and free tea and coffee was on the table, would you take it?
Jiaying
Would I be working with you?
Rob
Of course!
Jiaying
Let me think about it! Bye for now.
Rob
Bye-bye.